WIDNES Wild have managed to keep hold of their starting netminder Greg Ruxton for the 2016/17 campaign. Ruxton played a key role for the Halton based side in the 2015/16 season helping the Wild to 2nd place in the NIHL2 Laidler Conference. An unfortunate injury kept the Wild stopper out for spells throughout the season, the recurring injury also meant that Ruxton missed the play-offs and the promotion/relegation game.

Ruxton played 25 out of the 28 league games recording two shut outs and a very good save percentage of 90.63%. He faced 683 shots in those 25 games only conceding 64 goals.

These stats are quite impressive and it is no wonder why Wild Player-Coach Scott Mckenzie felt it was necessary to get the signature of his number one netminder straight away;

“I spoke to Greg a while ago about coming back next season. I felt like at times this season he really carried us as a team, especially at the start of the year he was excellent. Unfortunately, injury prevented him from playing a large part of the end of season games, it was disappointing to lose Greg at such an important time but it created an opportunity for Tom McDonald and David Good, who both played excellently when called upon.”

Mckenzie continued: “Looking to this year, I really want to use all of my goalies, I have two confirmed, Greg is obviously my first choice but I am looking for a goalie to push him for his spot and also give him a rest when he needs it.

"At times last year Greg played hurt and I don’t want that next year. I am very pleased to have Greg back next year, I think it will be to the envy of many coaches across the NIHL leagues.”

Greg Ruxton was voted the Supporters Player of the year at the prestigious End of Season Awards Night, an award that he was surprised but happy to receive;

“There were quite a few players that have stood out this season and could have easily won it but it means a lot to me that I am so well liked by the fans and I will do everything I can to maintain the respect that they have given me.”

Ruxton found it tough to miss out on the play-offs through injury but felt that overall, the year was a very successful one for the club as a whole;

“I was disappointed to miss the end of season playoffs, but overall I think we had a great year finishing 2nd shows how far the club has come.

"Year on year the club has grown and improved with the next step to hopefully win the league. I can’t wait to get going next season, it is sure to be an exciting one for all the Widnes Wild fans.”

Greg will continue to wear the #64 jersey and both his home and away jerseys are available to Own & Loan for just £75 each from today. If you would like to secure either of those jerseys, simply email info@widneswild.co.uk.

On Sunday, May 22 the Widnes Wild are hosting a ‘Skate with the Wild’ event from 5pm.

Fans can take to the ice to skate alongside some of their favourite players from last season. Tickets are the same price as game days with Adults £6 and Children £3.

Following that will be the Wild trials running from 7pm. Any players willing to trial should contact by email at; scott.mckenzie@widneswild.co.uk.